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Waymo Unveils Ojai: Its First Custom Ride-Hailing Vehicle with Gemini AI

Waymo, the autonomous driving company under Google, has launched the Ojai—its first self-driving car built from the ground up for ride-hailing. The vehicle also introduces Gemini in Waymo, an in-car AI assistant, and a completely revamped three-screen interface. Waymo's goal is to transform the cabin into a flexible space that passengers can use freely, and it plans to invite more members of the public to experience it soon.

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Gemini on Board, But Not in the Driver's Seat

The Gemini in Waymo conversational AI assistant runs independently from the Waymo Driver system. After tapping the Gemini icon on the screen, passengers can adjust the air conditioning, check trip details, ask about nearby coffee shops or landmark histories, and even control the cabin by saying, "Set the air conditioning to 18 degrees Celsius." They can also request to pull over by voice. However, Waymo is clear: Gemini does not control the vehicle's movement or route, nor can it access real-time driving data.

A Fresh Interface for a New Era

This screen update marks Waymo's first major interface change in years. The new design highlights trip information, music controls, and cabin media settings. The Ojai features three screens, each displaying content tailored to the seat. A passenger sitting alone in the rear right seat gets full control options, while other screens show simplified trip status or ambient media players. There's also a Calm Mode that dims the screen to show only essential trip info.

From custom hardware to an AI-powered cabin and scenario-based interactions, Waymo is redefining what it means to "ride in a car." The company is handing the steering wheel over to algorithms and giving the rest of the space back to passengers.

Key Points

  • The Ojai is Waymo's first purpose-built ride-hailing vehicle.
  • Gemini in Waymo handles voice commands for cabin controls and information, but not driving.
  • The three-screen interface adapts content based on seating position.
  • Calm Mode minimizes screen distractions for a more relaxed ride.
  • Waymo plans to expand public testing of the Ojai soon.